Convert Your GCC Driving License to a Qatar Driving License

If you’re relocating to Qatar from another GCC country, you may be curious about how to convert your GCC driving license to a Qatari license. The process can be relatively straightforward if you have the necessary documents and meet the requirements set by Qatar’s General Traffic Department.

This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you convert your GCC driving license to a Qatari driving license, ensuring you can drive legally and safely on Qatar’s roads.

Expatriates from GCC countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and the UAE will find this guide particularly useful, as it simplifies the process of converting their GCC license to a Qatari license.

To convert your GCC driving license to a Qatari driving license, you’ll need to prepare a few essential documents and meet specific requirements. Firstly, note that only certain types of GCC driving licenses can be converted to a Qatari licenses. These include licenses for cars, light vehicles, and motorcycles, but not for heavy vehicles like trucks or buses.

Additionally, your GCC driving license must have been issued at least one year prior to your application date and must be valid at the time of conversion.

Requirements for Converting a GCC Driving License to a Qatari Driving License

To successfully convert your GCC driving license to a Qatari driving license, ensure you meet the following requirements:

License Type: Only licenses for cars, light vehicles, and motorcycles are eligible for conversion. Licenses for heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses cannot be converted.
License Validity: Your GCC driving license must have been issued at least one year prior to your application date and must be valid at the time of conversion.
Necessary Documents: Gather the required documents for the conversion process, which typically include:
- Your original GCC driving license
- A valid residency permit in Qatar
- A passport-sized photograph
- Completed application form
- A no-objection certificate (NOC) from your sponsor or employer (if applicable)
Conversion Fee: There is a fee for converting a GCC driving license to a Qatari driving license.

Any additional documents specified by Qatar’s General Traffic Department

Meeting these requirements will help ensure a smooth and successful conversion of your GCC driving license to a Qatari driving license.

How To Convert GCC Driving License to Qatar Driving License

Expatriates with a valid GCC driving license who wish to convert it to a Qatari driving license and reside in Qatar can follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit a Driving School

To convert your GCC driving license to a Qatari license, visit an approved driving school in Qatar. These schools adhere to the curriculum set by the General Directorate of Traffic.

Step 2: Open a File with the Traffic Department

Each driving school has a Traffic Department office. For a smooth experience, visit the office in the morning between 6:30 am and 9:00 am to avoid long waits.

Required Documents:

Original GCC driving license
Qatar Resident Permit (Qatar ID Card)
Eye Test Certificate
QR 50 fee (debit/credit card)

Additional Documents (if required):

NOC from employer or sponsor (can also be done on Metrash App)
Sponsor company’s Trade License or sponsor’s QID (if under personal sponsorship)
3 passport-sized photos

Most driving schools offer eye test facilities, or you can get it done at any optometrist.

Step 3: Enroll in Theory Class and Book a Test Date

After completing the paperwork, enroll in a theory class and book a test date. The theory class covers road safety and traffic regulations and is mandatory before practical training.

Step 4: Study for and Take the Theory Test

Study for the theory test, which is computer-based and available in multiple languages, including Arabic and English. The test evaluates your knowledge of road safety and traffic regulations, and results are immediate.

Step 5: Pay the Road Test Fee and Book a Test Date

After passing the theory test, pay the QR 200 fee for the road test, which includes two attempts. Due to high demand, you may need to wait a few weeks to schedule your test or choose another driving school.

Step 6: Take the Road Test and Parking Test

On test day, register at the reception desk. The school provides a vehicle for the test, which lasts 10-15 minutes. If you pass, you’ll proceed to the parking test, which may be on the same or a later date.

Step 7: Pay the License Fee and Collect Your Driving License

After passing both tests, pay the driving license fee (usually QR 250 for five years) to obtain your license. Collect it from the driving school or relevant government agency, bringing all necessary documents.

Congratulations! With your new driving license, prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Can I Drive in Qatar With GCC License?

Yes, if you have a valid GCC license, you are allowed to drive in Qatar. Expatriate residents of GCC countries visiting Qatar can use their GCC driving license for up to three months. However, you must carry your passport or entry visa as proof of entry into Qatar. It is also advisable to familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations before driving in Qatar.

This rule applies to visitors on Family Visit visas, Visas on Arrival, GCC resident visit visas, or other types of tourist visas.

Once an expatriate obtains a residence visa in Qatar, they are no longer permitted to use their GCC driving license. They must apply for a Qatari driving license to legally drive in the country.

Can I Change GCC Driving License to Qatar Driving License?

Yes, you can exchange your GCC driving license for a Qatari driving license. However, the procedure may vary depending on your nationality. If you hold a GCC driving license, you can directly book your test, potentially saving you thousands of Qatari Riyals in driving school fees.

The GCC license must be valid, though in some rare cases, an expired license may be accepted.
The class of the license should match the old license.
Additionally, the license holder’s profession must not be on the list of professions ineligible for a driving license.

Things To Consider Before Coming to Roads

When obtaining a driving license, there are several important considerations to ensure you are fully prepared and able to drive safely:

Practice and Preparation: Ensure you have enough practice and preparation before taking your driving test. Take driving lessons or practice with a licensed driver to gain the necessary skills and experience, boosting your confidence and readiness to drive.

Safety First: Always prioritize safety while driving. Follow traffic laws and regulations, wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone, and stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Vehicle Maintenance: Keep your vehicle properly maintained to ensure it is in good working order and safe to drive. Regularly check your tires, brakes, lights, and other crucial systems to prevent potential issues or accidents.

Insurance: Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle. This protects you and others in the event of an accident or other incident.

Continuing Education: Even after obtaining your driving license, continue learning and improving your driving skills. Consider taking additional driving courses or training to stay updated with the latest safety regulations and techniques.

FAQ’s

Q: Is a UAE Driving License Valid in Qatar?

A: Yes, a UAE driving license is valid in Qatar for up to three months for visitors. However, expatriates who obtain a residence visa in Qatar must apply for a Qatari driving license to legally drive in the country.

Q: How much is the fee for the conversion of a GCC driving license into a Qatari Driving License?

A: The fee for converting a GCC driving license to a Qatari driving license is QR 50. Additional fees may apply for theory classes, road tests, and the final driving license, depending on the specific requirements and services provided by the driving school.